How the tables work

When you see your results, each card in the list will have a score out of 10 to show your chances of actually getting that card.

But, as well as your eligibility score, there are lots of other factors to consider before choosing your credit card. Many of these will depend on the type of card you want, but some apply to all cards.

For example, you’ll need to look at the cost of any potential new card (interest rate plus any fees) versus the cost of your existing credit card.

You can do this by comparing the representative annual percentage rate (APR) on your current card with the APRs shown against the cards on your results table.

For instance, if you’re moving an outstanding balance over to a balance transfer card, we’ll show you how much each card will cost you in fees and interest, and how long it will take you to repay what you owe based on your balance and the amount you repay each month.

What else you need to consider

You should always look carefully at any special deals. There will be different considerations for different card types, and you’ll need to bear these in mind when you’re choosing a card.

Here’s what to look out for:

Balance transfer cards

A balance transfer card is designed to reduce the amount of interest you’re paying on your existing credit card debts.

With this in mind, you’ll need to consider whether you want the longest number of months with a 0% rate of interest (which usually means a higher balance transfer fee to pay at the outset), or if you’d rather go for a shorter 0% interest rate period (with a lower fee).

If you opt for the latter, you must be sure you can pay off what you owe within the shorter 0% introductory period, so you don’t get hit with steep interest charges on what you still owe when the 0% rate ends.

Reward and cashback cards

If you want a reward card, take a close look at the actual value of the rewards on offer. Many offer points which can be redeemed as discounts on your supermarket shopping, or flights with certain airlines.

Think about how much you tend to spend on your credit card each month and consider how much the rewards you’ll get will be worth to you. If you don’t want rewards linked to one particular shop or airline, you may be better off opting for a cashback card, as you’ll be able to spend the cash on anything you want.

You should also check whether there’s an annual fee, and how much it is.

Remember, this type of card is only worthwhile if you will definitely clear your balance in full each month. If you can’t do this, the interest charged will soon outweigh the benefits of any rewards on offer.

Cards for overseas use

If you are trying to find the best credit card to use abroad, look at both the cash withdrawal fees and the charges for using the card to pay for something while you are away.

You’ll also need to compare the APRs so you can find the cheapest rate if you know you aren’t going to pay off your balance in full each month.

Purchase cards

If you want a purchase card because you’re keen to avoid paying interest on your spending, you’ll probably be looking for a long interest-free period.

Make sure you know how much interest you’ll be charged when the 0% rate ends. If you think you aren’t going to be able to pay off what you owe within this period, you should opt for a card with a low APR.

Alternatively, you could plan to move your balance onto a 0% balance transfer card when your interest-free period on the purchase card comes to an end.

Combined balance and purchase cards

Some cards offer a 0% rate on both balance transfers and purchases for the same number of months, while others might offer a longer 0% rate on purchases than balance transfers, or vice versa.

Think about which is most important for you. If, for example, you know you’ll be able to pay off any new spending quickly but it will take you longer to clear your balance, then the best card for you is likely to be one offering a longer introductory rate on balance transfers and a shorter rate on purchases.

Low rate cards

Low rate cards aim to offer a consistently competitive APR, and can be less hassle than constantly changing cards when 0% introductory periods finish. When you’re choosing a low rate card, you should go for the card with the lowest APR you can get.

If you’ve already got a credit card you want to move a balance across from, see how the interest charged compares with the rate you are currently paying, so you can be sure you’ll make a saving by moving your balance over.

Credit builder cards

The APR is usually the most important thing to consider when choosing a credit builder card, as they tend to be much higher than the APRs charged by other types of credit card.

Try to pay off your balance in full each month, as this will help you improve your credit score.